Bolivar Dam is within the Upper Tuscarawas section of the Muskingum Area. It was authorized by Section 4 of the Flood Control Act (FCA) of 1938, as amended by Section 4 of the FCA of 1939. Primary project purposes are flood damage reduction, recreation, and fish and wildlife. Land includes 713 fee acres and 8,282 flowage easement acres. Corps of Engineers recreational facilities include a day use area.